Chevron, marketer of Caltex and lubricants, has joined forces again with education technology platform Edukasyon.ph to sponsor a second batch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start scholars and help unemployed Filipinos upskill in cloud computing. Their joint efforts culminated in April 2025, when all 50 students graduated from the program with flying colors.
Executives from Chevron, Edukasyon.ph, AWS, and Job Partners, along with the graduates, gather after the graduation ceremony
The AWS re/Start program is a skills development and job training program that prepares unemployed or underemployed individuals for information technology careers. In 9-12 consecutive weeks, learners gain both technical knowledge as well as behaviors, mindsets and employment essentials, preparing them for entry-level careers in the cloud.
The program also links graduates to in-demand tech jobs, allowing them to apply their new skills and provide for their families. Employers that were present at this year’s exclusive career fair include Chevron, Bayad Center, Kuehne Nagel, Stratpoint, Boss Jobs, Promotexter, Software One, ECloud Valley, Absi and Maverick.
According to Chevron Philippines Senior Corporate Advisor Raissa Bautista, Chevron values its partnership with the AWS re/Start program and Edukasyon.ph as their tie-up offers learners opportunities to continue their education and personal growth. This would also prepare graduates to enter the dynamic field of cloud computing and innovate in their respective companies.
She told the graduates, “This program has created a full circle of education and gives everybody a second chance if they had to stop for a while. I am also fascinated with the age of digitization because I think it’s really the future. I know the possibilities are limitless, so just spread your wings and good luck.”
Meanwhile, Edukasyon.ph Strategic Account Manager Joshua Toquero said that Edukasyon and Chevron renewed their partnership for AWS re/Start because they both value helping young professionals reach their dream careers.
He also hopes that AWS re/Start graduates realize they no longer have to struggle alone because multiple stakeholders are willing to help them reach their dreams. “I hope they believe that no man is an island and that you can achieve your goals if you work hand-in-hand with other people in the community.”
A golden opportunity to gain cloud computing experience
Program graduate Paolo Gio Espiritu expressed gratitude towards the AWS re/Start Program, as this would help him break into the field of information technology. Espiritu struggled with losing his job during the pandemic for the past few years and faced many IT job rejections. So, when the opportunity to land an AWS re/Start scholarship via Chevron’s sponsorship came, he took a leap of faith and applied. Out of over 1,500 applicants, Espiritu landed in the lucky 50 and eventually became one of the batch topnotchers.
During his speech, Espiritu reflected on how his hardships never stopped him from pursuing more learning opportunities through the AWS re/Start program. “When I was accepted, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude because even at 33 years old, I can still break into IT. To the entire Edukasyon.ph team and Chevron, thank you for giving us this life-changing opportunity. Because of this program, I am now one step closer to achieving my dream job.”
Fellow topnotcher Nika Amorin opened about how she initially struggled with balancing her studies with her day job and even considered giving up. However, she remained steadfast in her goal, taking each day one step at a time. “[Through] my persistence and determination, I caught up with the activities and finished the program. Looking back, all the hard work was worth it. The hands-on activities that go beyond traditional schooling and work experience prove to be invaluable.”
How Chevron opens more opportunities for promising talent
AWS Philippines Country Manager Precious Lim also thanked Chevron for helping professionals enroll in a world-class cloud computing course. “In today’s digital economy, cloud computing skills are essential for business innovation and competitiveness. We’re proud to collaborate with Chevron for a second year in the AWS re/Start program, as their commitment helps transform Filipino lives while building the skilled workforce needed for our country’s digital future.”
She also recalled how Chevron has always been open to training young talent, as she previously worked there as an intern. Through Chevron, Lim gained experience working on databases, which helped shape her long-term IT career.
Chevron’s sponsorship of the AWS re/Start Program is just one of its initiatives geared towards promoting further education and career development in the Philippines. For more updates on Chevron’s educational initiatives, check out https://www.chevron.com/worldwide/philippines.
